According to Kathimerini, Athens is pursuing a multi-layered strategy to limit Türkiye’s involvement in European defense projects while supporting the EU’s “drone wall” initiative. A central pillar of this approach is closer cooperation with Israel in anti-drone and air defense technologies.

Admiral Blount’s Assessment

The report highlights comments from British Admiral Keith Blount, Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, summarizing a current defense dilemma:

We cannot keep shooting down cheap drones with expensive equipment.

British Admiral Keith Blount

This statement reflects a reality faced by all NATO members. In this context, the European Commission’s plan to establish a “drone wall” covering all EU external borders by 2027 is viewed positively by Athens.

Greece’s Strategic Priorities

For Greece, the critical priority is preventing Türkiye’s defense industry from participating in the development of such systems. Analysts note that NATO allies, including Secretary-General Mark Rutte, recognize Türkiye’s experience in unmanned systems as a valuable contribution to the Alliance’s deterrence capacity.

Within the EU, Athens has formed a front with Paris and Nicosia to block Türkiye’s participation, though major capitals such as Berlin, Rome, and Madrid remain aligned with Ankara.

Cooperation with Israel and Implementation

Greece is simultaneously pursuing diplomatic efforts and strengthening its own anti-drone capabilities through cooperation with Israel. Israeli systems have already been deployed on key islands in the Eastern Aegean.

The negotiations, reportedly advanced, include the “Achilles Shield,” a multi-layered air defense dome. Proposed Israeli systems for Greece include:

• Laser Systems: Evaluated primarily for anti-drone applications by the Hellenic Armed Forces.
• “Killer Drones”: Autonomous drones capable of gathering intelligence and engaging threats, deployable even on small, remote islands.
• Spyder Air Defense Systems: “All-in-one” solutions discussed in detail with Athens.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has drawn a “red line,” insisting that Türkiye must demonstrate institutional behavior and remove casus belli (war justification) claims, abandoning gray-zone strategies before participating in European defense projects.

Ankara’s Response

Kathimerini reports that Ankara has rejected Athens’ demands and shows no intention of changing its stance. Turkish officials cite the 1995 parliamentary statement as a response to Greece’s expansion of territorial waters in the Aegean.

The analysis emphasizes that Türkiye could make significant practical contributions to European defense, particularly in the mass production of unmanned systems. Türkiye’s defense industry also plays a key role in producing mortars, ammunition, infantry rifles, and armored combat vehicles.

Leading Turkish companies include:

• Baykar: Produces TB2, TB3, and AKINCI drones, aiming to expand production with European funding. The TB2, costing around $5 million, has been exported to over 32 countries with more than 600 units, following its success in Karabakh.
• TUSAŞ: Manufactures ANKA-1 and ANKA-2 drones, as well as the Hürjet trainer jet, with confirmed sales to Spain.
• Other Companies: ROKETSAN and STM produce various loitering munitions, while BMC and OTOKAR manufacture large quantities of armored vehicles.